Southampton react on Twitter to Mario Lemina’s debut vs West Ham

Southampton defeated a ten-man West Ham United at the St Mary’s Stadium on Saturday with thanks to a penalty in both halves, whilst debutant Mario Lemina also had an eventful time in the middle of the park.

Italy international Manolo Gabbiadini opened the scoring for the Saints in the 10th minute, slotting past Joe Hart in the Hammers goal.

West Ham record-signing Marko Arnuatovic saw red for elbowing Jack Stephens, after he felt Lemina had done the same to him just before, however, nothing had come of it.

Dusan Tadic managed to double the home side’s lead from the penalty spot after former Southampton defender Jose Fonte brought down Steven Davis, before Javier Hernandez managed to bag one back before the break.

The Mexico international managed to level the scoreline, although another Saints penalty was awarded late in stoppage time, which Charlie Austin converted to keep all three points at St Mary’s Stadium.

Club-record signing Lemina, who joined from Juventus in past couple of weeks, had an eventful 65 minutes in his first appearance for the team.

He was fortunate to not receive any form of reprimand for a challenge on Arnuatovic, who went down to an apparent stay elbow, however, he was on the receiving end of a challenge from Mark Noble that could have caused him some serious harm.

Lemina’s pedigree, given that he has played for both Marseille and Juventus, will surely be a boost for Southampton this season and add another option in midfield for manager Mauricio Pellegrino.

Saints fans would have been pleased to see their newest player take to the field, although they took to social media to discuss the midfielder’s performance.

Many took to Twitter to state that he had a positive debut, however, he looked a little rusty and struggled slightly, although they are willing to let time tell on the Gabon international.

Here is the best from Twitter:

Think Lemina struggled today but I'll put that down to misunderstanding, fitness, nerves & adapting to EPL. Time will tell.

Freelance writer for a number of publications that lives and breathes the game of football. If there is a match on the box, then you can guarantee that it will be on in the house! Currently based in Spain.

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